The kit contained everything I needed to make this incredible cuff bracelet, with the exception of needles and thread. Included in the kit are:
- Size 11 seed beads in one or two beautiful colors (depending on the colorway chosen)
- Sterling silver or niobium wire (depending on the colorway chosen)
- 3mm Swarovski crystals in a coordinating color
- 6mm magnetic clasps
To complete the cuff as outlined in Seed Bead Fusion, you will also need a set of wire working tools: flush cutters, round nose pliers, chain nose pliers, and wire straightening pliers. It is also recommended that 6lb Fireline be used for the stitching, although I used WildFire beading thread and was very pleased with the results.
It should be noted that the kit does not contain instructions - it is a materials-only kit that is meant to be used with the instructions found in Seed Bead Fusion.
This bracelet was a delight to make. The instructions in the book were clear and detailed, and made what might seem to be a very complex piece of beadwork a relatively simple and delightful project. Learning the Ootheca technique to stitch each of the little beaded bumps was a wonderfully soothing way to spend my evenings while I worked up this bracelet, and wearing and holding the finished bracelet is a wonderful tactile experience.
Beginners should be comfortable with right angle weave and even-count peyote stitch before attempting this project. Intermediate and advanced beaders should have no problems stitching and assembling this beautiful bracelet. Wire working skills are also helpful.
The Ootheca Cuff bracelet kit is available in eight stunning colorways and can be purchased for $116.00 from Rachel Nelson-Smith's website.